The Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 gauge has garnered significant attention among upland bird hunters and sporting clays enthusiasts. Its compact size and lightweight design make it exceptionally maneuverable, while its performance belies its diminutive stature. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and overall suitability for various hunting and shooting disciplines.
What Makes the Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 Gauge Stand Out?
The Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 gauge distinguishes itself through a potent combination of factors. Its most notable characteristic is its reduced size and weight, making it ideal for extended hunting trips where carrying a firearm for hours is crucial. This compact design doesn't compromise performance; the Midas delivers consistent patterns and impressive stopping power.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Design: The reduced weight minimizes fatigue, enhancing shooting comfort and accuracy, especially during long hunting sessions.
- Invector-DS Choke System: This allows for easy interchangeability of chokes, providing versatility to optimize patterns for different shooting situations and game.
- Inox Stainless Steel: The receiver is crafted from Inox stainless steel, ensuring exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, even in challenging weather conditions.
- Adjustable Comb: Some models feature an adjustable comb, enabling shooters to customize the stock for optimal cheek weld and improved shooting posture. This feature greatly enhances comfort and consistency.
- 20 Gauge Versatility: The 20 gauge offers a pleasant balance between recoil and power, making it suitable for various game types.
Performance and Handling: On the Range and in the Field
The Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 gauge demonstrates excellent performance across various applications. The Invector-DS choke system proves invaluable in fine-tuning shot patterns to suit the specific needs of the hunt.
Field Performance:
- Upland Bird Hunting: The gun's light weight and agility are significant advantages in navigating dense brush and maneuvering quickly for shots at rapidly moving birds.
- Small Game Hunting: The 20 gauge offers sufficient power for small game hunting, while the manageable recoil makes follow-up shots easier.
Range Performance:
- Sporting Clays: While not as popular a choice as larger gauges for sporting clays, the Micro Midas can deliver respectable scores with proper technique and choke selection. Its handling makes it enjoyable for those who value maneuverability.
- Target Shooting: Its precision and consistent patterns make it a viable option for target shooting, especially at shorter ranges.
Who is the Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 Gauge For?
This firearm is perfectly suited for hunters who prioritize:
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Hunters who spend long hours in the field will greatly appreciate the reduced weight and manageable size.
- Versatility: Those who hunt various game types will benefit from the adaptability offered by the 20 gauge and the Invector-DS choke system.
- Maneuverability: The Micro Midas's handling makes it an excellent choice for navigating challenging terrain.
Potential Drawbacks:
While the Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 gauge offers numerous advantages, it's important to consider potential drawbacks:
- Recoil: While generally manageable, some shooters might find the recoil more pronounced compared to larger gauges, especially with heavier loads.
- Price Point: As a high-quality firearm, it sits at a higher price point than some entry-level shotguns.
Final Verdict:
The Browning Silver Micro Midas 20 gauge is a high-performing, lightweight shotgun that excels in upland bird hunting and other applications where maneuverability is crucial. Its features, performance, and robust construction make it a worthwhile investment for discerning hunters seeking a compact and reliable firearm. However, potential buyers should consider their individual recoil tolerance and budget before making a purchase.
